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ICD-10 Coding for Abnormal Computed Tomography(R93.89, R93.2)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abnormal Computed Tomography. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Abnormal CT ScanAbnormal CT Findings

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Abnormal Computed Tomography

R90-R94Primary Range

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging and in function studies, without diagnosis

This range includes codes for abnormal findings on imaging studies when no specific diagnosis is confirmed.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R93.89Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of other specified body structuresUse when imaging shows abnormal findings without a confirmed diagnosis.
  • Radiology report impression section detailing abnormal findings
  • Recommendation for follow-up or further investigation
R93.2Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of liver and biliary tractUse when imaging shows abnormalities specific to the liver or biliary tract.
  • Imaging showing specific liver or biliary tract abnormalities
  • Correlation with clinical symptoms or lab findings

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for abnormal CT scan

Essential facts and insights about Abnormal Computed Tomography

The ICD-10 code for an abnormal CT scan without a specific diagnosis is R93.89.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for abnormal computed tomography

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of other specified body structures
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Impression section indicates abnormal findings without a specific diagnosis.

documentation Criteria

  • Radiology report lacks sufficient detail to confirm a specific diagnosis.

Applicable To

  • Non-specific findings such as masses or opacities without confirmed diagnosis

Excludes

  • Confirmed diagnoses that explain the abnormal findings

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Radiology report impression section detailing abnormal findings
  • Recommendation for follow-up or further investigation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding a confirmed diagnosis instead of using R93.89

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation in the impression section supports the use of R93.89.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Follow-up examination after treatment for malignant neoplasm

Z08
Use when follow-up is recommended after abnormal findings suggest malignancy.

Diseases of liver

K70-K77
Use alongside R93.2 when liver disease is confirmed.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of liver and biliary tract

R93.2
Use R93.2 specifically for liver and biliary tract findings.

Fatty (change of) liver, not elsewhere classified

K76.0
Use K76.0 when fatty liver is confirmed by imaging and clinical correlation.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abnormal Computed Tomography to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R93.89.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to inappropriate follow-up actions., Regulatory: May result in audit issues., Financial: Can cause claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Train radiologists on detailed documentation., Implement standardized reporting templates.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: May result in non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use R93.x codes until a diagnosis is confirmed by clinical correlation or biopsy.

Impact

Using unspecified codes when more specific codes are available.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation supports the most specific code possible.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Abnormal Computed Tomography, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Abnormal Computed Tomography

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abnormal Computed Tomography. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Abnormal CT findings in the liver

Specialty: Radiology

Required Elements

  • Indications
  • Findings
  • Impression
  • Recommendations

Example Documentation

Indications: 45F with elevated liver enzymes. Findings: 2.5 cm hypodense lesion in right hepatic lobe. Impression: Suggestive of benign cyst, recommend follow-up ultrasound.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abnormal CT scan.
Good Documentation Example
CT shows 2.5 cm hypodense lesion in right hepatic lobe, suggestive of benign cyst.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the findings and suggests a follow-up plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Abnormal Computed Tomography? Ask your questions below.

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